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PEOPLE ADVISED TO LIMIT SOCIAL CONTACT

To slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), the general public are being asked to stay at home as much as possible and avoid unnecessary social contact.

People over 70, and those who have high risk and underlying health conditions, are being strongly advised to stay at home as much as possible and significantly reduce unnecessary social contact.

The advice is that people should:

minimise social contact by avoiding crowded areas and large gatherings – including religious congregations – and smaller gatherings – such as restaurants, pubs, bars, clubs, cinemas and gyms

avoid using public transport as much as possible

work from home where possible

follow the latest health and travel advice and basic hygiene precautions – such as washing hands frequently, not touching the face and covering the nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing

People showing symptoms suggestive of coronavirus should stay at home for seven days, only contacting NHS 111 or GP surgeries if symptoms worsen during that period.

All members of a household where someone has suspected symptoms should stay at home for 14 days.

This package of necessary measures comes into force with immediate effect.

Schools will remain open for the time being, however this decision will be consistently monitored and reviewed depending on the spread of the infection.

Those who cannot work from home should continue to go to work unless advised by their employer or displaying symptoms.

These measures will be kept under constant review as we try to slow down the spread of the infection.

The First Minister said:

“Life as we know it will change in the coming weeks and months, but our goal is to protect lives. We are facing an unprecedented situation that will require major societal change if we are to protect people, especially those most at risk and our NHS.

“The package of measures we are announcing today is based on scientific and clinical advice. While it will cause some disruption and be difficult for us all, it will help us to prepare for the virus and to protect ourselves and each other in the long run.

“We need your help to slow the spread of the infection. That is why we are advising everyone in Scotland to restrict their social contact and to stay at home as much as possible. We are strongly advising those who are over 70 or have an underlying health condition to stay at home.

“People have a vital role to play in helping us contain this infection, and I urge everyone in Scotland to follow the latest health and travel advice and basic hygiene precautions – such as washing hands frequently, not touching the face and covering the nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

“This has not been an easy decision but it is vital if we are to stop the spread of the infection.”

Common symptoms of coronavirus include:

fever or a temperature of above 37.8°C

persistent cough

A free helpline has been set up for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice: